When the weather turns crisp, our snacking gets serious. Movie nights multiply, and the popcorn kernel takes the limelight. Today's popcorn options feature everything from heirloom corn to protein-packed varieties and ancient grain alternatives that pop into perfect little pearls.
DIY Delights
Nothing quite matches the satisfaction of popping your own corn — especially when it arrives as an actual cob. Petersen Family Farm's microwave popcorn on the cob delivers both novelty and nostalgia in one package. These sun-dried heirloom kernels come with their own popping bags and yield about five cups per cob of surprisingly flavorful popcorn.
The real fun begins with seasoning. The Petersens swear by black truffle salt and fresh rosemary, but the possibilities stretch as far as your spice cabinet. Try everything bagel seasoning for a savory twist, cinnamon-cardamom sugar for sweet sophistication, or ranch powder made from scratch with dried dill and garlic.
For those who like their snacks with visual flair, True Origin Foods' rainbow popcorn has multicolored kernels. Perfect for parties or simply brightening a Tuesday night. Toss with coconut oil and nutritional yeast for a vegan "cheese" coating that rivals the real thing.
Khloud takes a different approach with its protein-enhanced kettle corn. These Nebraskan butterfly kernels come pre-coated with a unique blend of non-GMO dairy protein, a.k.a. Khloud Dust. It's the snack equivalent of having your cake and eating it too — sweet, salty, and surprisingly substantial.
Ancient Grains
Sorghum is ready for its close-up! This ancient grain pops into tiny, crunchy spheres with a distinctly nutty flavor. Nature Nate's has mastered the art with their irresistible varieties.
Their sea salt and avocado oil flavor lets the grain shine in all its earthy glory. But their "Extremely Cheezy" option — coated in aged Spokane cheddar — proves that sorghum has plenty to bring to the party. For anyone avoiding corn or simply seeking adventure, these little pops of flavor offer a delightful alternative.
Ready-Made Indulgence
Sometimes the best DIY is D-I-Don't. Flavored popcorn options read like a dessert menu in disguise, and we're not complaining.
Nob Hill Trading Co.'s white chocolate peppermint popcorn transforms the classic candy cane into crunchy, coated kernels studded with peppermint pieces. It's essentially Christmas in a bowl, no assembly required.
Angie's Boom Chicka Pop strikes a balance with its dark chocolate drizzled kettle corn. Rather than drowning the kernels, they apply chocolate in delicate ribbons that complement the sweet-salty base. Each handful delivers just enough cocoa to feel indulgent without overwhelming.
Lesser Evil proves that "organic" and "indulgent" aren't mutually exclusive with their white chocolate marshmallow flavor. Made with coconut oil and finished with Himalayan salt, it manages to taste like a fancy s'more while checking all the wholesome boxes.
As we settle in for long nights and cozy gatherings, these elevated options remind us that comfort food doesn't have to be predictable. From ancient grains to modern flavor combinations, popcorn has officially grown up, and our movie nights are all the better for it. So go ahead, pop open something new. Your taste buds will thank you.
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